Where to go, 4 day weekend

Question

2 couples mid-50's I usually go to the greater Scottsdale area. And love it The other couple is suggesting north Phoenix. I don't know anything about the area. What do you prefer in terms of things to do. My thought is I want to golf. I'm easy other than that.

Answer

If you are planning a 4-day weekend in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area and want a mix of golf and relaxing activities, both Scottsdale and north Phoenix offer great options, but they have different vibes and amenities.

Scottsdale: Scottsdale is the classic choice for golf, luxury resorts, and a lively social scene. It’s ideal if you want a combination of golf, nice dining, and some casual nightlife. The golf courses are numerous and highly rated, often with beautiful desert scenery.

Golf: Courses like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, and Grayhawk are excellent choices with championship layouts and beautiful desert backdrops.
Other activities: You can enjoy spa treatments at resort hotels, visit Old Town Scottsdale for art galleries and shopping, or take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert.
Dining: Scottsdale has a wide selection of upscale and casual restaurants with southwestern and international cuisine.

North Phoenix: North Phoenix is quieter, more residential, and less touristy than Scottsdale. It has some golf options but fewer luxury resort-style courses. The focus here is more on outdoor adventures and hiking, with easy access to the Desert Botanical Garden, North Mountain, and Pinnacle Peak.

Golf: Look for courses like Desert Highlands or Starfire Golf Club. They are less crowded but may lack the resort amenities of Scottsdale.
Other activities: Hiking and nature walks in the nearby desert preserves, visiting the Musical Instrument Museum, or enjoying local breweries.
Dining: More casual and local-focused than Scottsdale, but still some great restaurants.

Recommendation: For a short 4-day weekend where golf is your primary interest and you want convenience, Scottsdale is generally the better choice. You’ll have world-class courses, easy access to dining, and the comfort of resort accommodations. North Phoenix is ideal if your group prefers a quieter, more laid-back outdoor experience with hiking and nature focus.

You could also split your stay: 2 nights in Scottsdale for golf and resort comfort, and 2 nights in north Phoenix if you want a more local, outdoor-oriented experience.

Where to go, 4 day weekend

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